Batting legend Sachin Tendulkar has praised the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) newly introduced guidelines aimed at helping women players return to the sport after pregnancy, describing the initiative
as a significant step forward for women’s cricket globally.
The ICC on Monday rolled out its ‘Return to Play Post-Pregnancy Guidelines’, a framework designed to support female cricketers through recovery, training and conditioning after childbirth. The recommendations outline a structured 16-week pathway intended to facilitate a safe and sustainable return to competitive cricket.
At the heart of the document is a six-stage model built around the principles of Ready, Review, Restore, Recondition, Return and Refine.
Reacting to the announcement, Tendulkar expressed his support in a post on X.
“Exceptional batting by the @ICC,” Tendulkar wrote. “Empowerment in sport is about ensuring that a player’s journey, in all phases, is supported with the right framework. Seeing the transition from ‘choosing between’ to ‘doing both’ is proof that we are playing the game the right way.”
“A massive boost for the future of women cricketers worldwide,” he added.
Exceptional batting by the @ICC. Empowerment in sport is about ensuring that a player’s journey, in all phases, is supported with the right framework.
Seeing the transition from ‘choosing between’ to ‘doing both’ is proof that we are playing the game the right way.
A massive… https://t.co/8nTdZdcL51
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) June 23, 2026
The guidelines also recommend appointing a dedicated Case Manager to oversee each player’s transition back into elite cricket following pregnancy. According to the document, the role should be filled by either a doctor or a physiotherapist.
During the initial review phase, particular emphasis is placed on psychological support to help athletes adapt to motherhood. This period is followed by a gradual reintroduction to strength-focused training programmes. After eight weeks of assessments and monitored progression, players can begin running again under the supervision of medical and physiotherapy professionals.
Before clearance is granted for a return to competitive action, players must undergo comprehensive monitoring for symptoms, including musculoskeletal concerns and pelvic floor-related issues.
The ICC said the framework has been developed to align with local legal requirements while prioritising player welfare through practical, physical and psychological support measures.
